Dwight carnival returns

LAKE OF BAYS – After a scare late last year that there weren’t enough volunteers to help keep the Dwight Winter Carnival alive, community spirit has come through. The winter festivities are set for Feb. 22 and 23.
“We’re really happy we were able to keep it going,” said Ashley West, one of the volunteers. “It’s tradition in the community. It’s been there for 43 years and we all have very happy memories of it when we were kids, so it’s nice to be able to carry on the tradition.”
West said the organizing committee has about 12 volunteers and has been working hard to keep the carnival tradition going. She said it’s an opportunity for the community to get together and enjoy socializing during the winter months when there isn’t as much happening in the area.
The event kicks off Feb. 22 with the Kids Kapers bash from 5:30 to 7 p.m. There will be various types of carnival games and prizes for children ages 10 and under.
Also on Friday evening will be nighttime shinny at the Dwight rink at 7 p.m., along with a bonfire and treats.
Be up and out the door early Saturday morning to start the day off with a pancake breakfast from 8 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. The Dwight Lion’s Club, who will be offering pancakes, bacon, sausages and hot and cold drinks, will organize the breakfast.
Throughout the day there will be a number of activities including pony rides, a singing contest, log sawing and a science show.
Area firefighters will be holding a barbecue lunch and there will be a nail driving contest, minnow racing, all-day family skating, a snowmobile display and more.
The carnival closes with a costume-themed dance from 8 p.m. to 1 a.m. for adults.
Tickets are $5.
Organizers are working to confirm a few more activities within the next week. All events will be held at the Dwight Community Centre.
Cost of admission is $4 per person or four for $12.
“It’s a great opportunity to get out and have a fun day. A lot of times when you try to go out it’s a little expensive. But for a family of four it’s $12 and you can have an entire day of fun,” said West.
All confirmed events are listed on the website at www.dwightwintercarnival.com.